There’s nothing like a list of the best MAME games that have livened up the lives of many in the past few decades. Thanks to the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator software, we can now replay almost every title that has hit various systems from Atari, Capcom, Namco, Sega, Nintendo, Midway and many more.
Arcade titles were generally popular between the 70’s and the 90’s, and we’ve seen some of the most renowned names including Pac-Man, Mario, Ninja Turtles and Street Fighter amongst others, surface from these systems. These games were highly addictive and not to mention, extremely tough to complete. So let’s take a look at some of our favorites below.
1. Pac-Man:
Pac-Man is a name that’s famous even today. Originally launched back in 1980, the title managed to attain great success across the globe and has even spawned numerous other games. The main star here is Pac-Man where in each stage, you’ll guide him through paths to eat dots.
Once all circles have been consumed, the stage is over. Sounds easy right? Well, there are 4 enemies (Blinky, Pinky, Inky and Clyde) roaming the map and if you come in contact with them, you die. The game ends when all lives are over.
2. Galaga:
Galaga is the sequel to Galaxian which was launched in 1979. This 1981 arcade title has been ported over to various systems such as the GameBoy, Nintendo’s Virtual Console, XBLA, iOS, 3DS and Roku amongst others. The gameplay here has virtually no end.
It goes on until the player looses the last ship or when captured. Set in space, you’ll have a swarm of aliens attacking you. You can avoid damage by navigating away from bombs and missiles, as well as fight back with your own weapons.
3. Vs. Super Mario Bros.:
There’s no doubt that the Super Mario Bros. title for the NES is one of the most challenging of its time and beating it meant hours of continuous playing. Well, its arcade version Vs. Super Mario Bros. is even tougher.
The title features the same graphics, albeit the stages are modified with stronger enemies and harder obstacles, and a few things like power-ups as well as hidden items have been eliminated.
4. Frogger:
Crossing busy streets is a tedious task, so just imaging how hard I would be for a frog. Launched in 1981, Frogger was designed by Konami and it has a very simple goal – Guide each frog safely to their home whist avoiding obstacles. Well, easier said than done.
You have to first take on incoming traffic while making it past a busy road with cars moving in both directions, followed by a river filled with logs, and turtles which are to be used for crossing to the other side. Hard as it is, each level has a time limit and getting hit by a car, a crocodile or falling in the water means game over.
5. Tekken 3:
Tekken 3 is the third installment in the popular franchise and it hit arcade systems in the year 1997. Compared to most additions on this roster, this title features commendable 3D graphics and pretty good audio that goes well with the gameplay.
Speaking of which, it features fast paced combat with a good collection of fighters (over 50) to choose from including Kunimitsu, Michelle Chang and Prototype Jack which were present in the original release.
6. Mortal Kombat:
The first addition in the Mortal Kombat series may not be as graphically rich as Tekken 3, but it’s equally fun to play. Launched back in 1992, the title is designed with 2D graphics and the sound effects blend well with the gameplay.
The story here puts you on a journey to save the earth from the evil Shang Tsung, who you battle at the end in the Mortal Kombat tournament. This title features various finishing moves and a five-button control system.
7. Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes:
Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes is the third fighter to make it on the list. This arcade game features fast-paced combat where various characters from Marvel and other Capcom releases can be teamed up and thrown into the ring together.
From Marvel, you’ll have access to Spider Man, Gambit, Captin America, Hulk, War Machine, Venom and Wolverine, while the other side has popular names like Lility, Mega Man, Ryu, Captin Commando and more.
8. Metal Slug 3:
Metal Slug 3 is one of the most challenging titles on this compilation. You can be sure that this side scrolling 2D game will keep you continuously busy with swarms of enemies attacking. The goal is the reach the end of each level following which, a boss fight takes place.
You’ll have various vehicles along the way which deliver better defense and higher damage. There are hidden items and power-ups available as well.
9. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or otherwise known as TMNT is one of the few titles to offer multiplayer support. The game was available in two options, one with 2-player support and the other permitting up to 4 players at a time.
You play as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello or Raphael and embark on a mission to defeat the evil Shredder. This one also follows the same approach as most arcade side-scrollers – The end of each level will bring up a boss fight.
Conclusion:
Well, that ends our roster of the best MAME games. There are numerous others we’d like to include on this compilation, but we’ve kept the list to only our favorites. Most of the aforementioned titles have been ported over or re-released to newer consoles and platforms.